Beyond the Dome

Greenwall Plants:

Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston Ferns have long, graceful fronds that can grow up to 2-3 feet long. The fronds are composed of numerous small, leaf-like structures called pinnae, giving the plant a feathery appearance.
Fun facts: They have an arching growth habit, making them ideal for hanging baskets or as decorative foliage in pots.

Arrowhead plant (Syngonium podophyllum)
Syngonium is known for its arrowhead-shaped leaf, which is typically variegated with shades of green, white, cream, or pink. As the plant matures, the leaves can be more deeply lobed.
Fun Facts: Syngonium comes in a variety of cultivars with different leaf colors and patterns, making it a versatile choice for adding color and interest to indoor spaces. The plant’s growth habit changes as it matures. Young plants have more compact, upright growth, while mature plants tend to develop longer vines.

Malvarosa or Sweet-scented Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
This plant is known for its fragrant leaves, which release a pleasant scent when touched or crushed. It is popular in gardens and for its use in essential oils and herbal products.
Fun Facts: The leaves of the sweet scented geranium have a rose-like scent, although other varieties may have citrus, mint, or even nutmeg fragrances. The scent comes from essential oils in the leaves. The plant is used to produce geranium essential oil, which is highly valued in aromatherapy, perfumery, and cosmetics for its calming and balancing properties.

Golden Orlando (Philodendron ‘Golden Goddess’)
This vibrant and eye-catching tropical plant is known for its striking golden-yellow to lime-green foliage. Its heart-shaped leaves grow in a climbing or trailing habit
Fun Facts: The Philodendron Golden Goddess not only showcases stunning golden-yellow leaves but also functions as a natural air purifier, contributing to a healthier environment. Additionally, as it matures, its stems develop a reddish tint, enhancing its overall vibrant appearance and tropical charm.

Pakpak Lawin “plant native to the Philippines” (Drynaria quercifolia /Aglaomorpha quercifolia)
Drynaria quercifolia, or Oak Leaf Fern, is a native plant of the Philippines, valued for its distinctive, broad leaves that resemble oak leaves. This epiphytic fern typically grows on trees or rocks in tropical forests, making it well-suited for humid environments.
Fun Facts: This plant features two distinct types of fronds. The sterile fronds act as a natural reservoir, collecting moisture and organic matter, while the fertile fronds grow upward, creating a striking and ornamental appearance. This unique adaptation allows the fern to thrive as a self-sustaining plant in its natural environment.

Bird’s Nest Plant (Asplenium nidus)
This tropical plant is known for its large, wavy, sword-shaped leaves that grow in a rosette formation resembling a bird’s nest.
Fun Fact: The Bird’s Nest Fern is named for its nest-like rosette of leaves. In its natural environment, this structure helps the plant collect water and organic debris, which serve as additional nutrients, highlighting nature’s efficient resource-gathering system.

Anthurium or Flamingo Flower (Anthurium andraeanum)
Also known as the Flamingo Flower, this tropical plant is recognized for its glossy, heart-shaped leaves and bright, colorful appearance.
Fun Fact: The bright, waxy parts of Anthurium andraeanum that resemble flowers are actually specialized leaves called spathes. The true flowers are the small bumps on the central spike, known as the spadix, adding a unique touch to the plant’s structure and appeal.

Philodendron Monstera or Swiss Cheese Plant (Montera Deliciosa)
Swiss Cheese Plant or Split-leaf Philodendron, is a popular house plant known for its distinctive foliage and easy care.
Fun Fact: The name “deliciosa” refers to the plant’s fruit, which is edible when ripe and has taste similar to combination of pineapple and banana. However, the fruits should only be eaten when fully ripe to avoid irritation.

Red Congo (Philodendron ‘Congo Rojo’)
The Red Congo Philodendron has large, glossy leaves that emerge with a reddish or burgundy hue and mature to a deep green. The petioles (stems) are also red, adding to the plant’s vibrant appearance.
Fun Fact: Like many philodendrons, the Red Congo is relatively easy to care for and adapts well to a range of indoor conditions. Philodendrons, including the Red Congo, are known for their ability to improve indoor air quality by filtering out toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.

Pothos or Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Golden Pothos is known for its heart-shaped leaves that are green with variegated golden-yellow streaks. The leaves grow on long, trailing vines, which can be trained to climb or allowed to cascade from hanging baskets.
Fun Fact: Golden Pothos is renowned for its air-purifying properties. It can remove toxins like formaldehyde, xylene, and benzene from the air, making it a popular choice for improving indoor air quality. Indoors, the vines can grow up to 10 feet or more in length, making it an excellent choice for trailing or climbing displays.

Philodendron Temptation plant (Philodendron “Temptation” plant)
Philodendron ‘Temptation’ is characterized by its glossy, dark green leaves that are heart-shaped and have a smooth, elegant texture. The leaves may have slight variegation or lighter green markings, depending on the specific plant and lighting conditions.
Fun Fact: Philodendron ‘Temptation’ can adapt to various lighting conditions, though it prefers bright, indirect light for optimal growth and leaf color. It typically grows as a compact, bushy plant with a clumping habit. It is not a climbing philodendron, making it suitable for table tops and floor displays.

Philodendron Burle Marx (Philodendron Burle Marx)
The Burle Marx Plant typically refers to the Philodendron ‘Burle Marx’ known for its elongated, heart-shaped leaves that are glossy and dark green. The leaves grow on slender stems, giving the plant a bushy appearance as it matures.
Fun Fact: This plant is named after Roberto Burle Marx, who was a pioneering landscape architect known for incorporating native Brazilian plants into his designs. It has a clumping habit with a tendency to spread out horizontally rather than climb, though it can be trained to climb if provided with support.

Prince of Orange (Philodendron Prince of Orange)
This hybrid plant is known for its vibrant copper-orange leaves that gradually mature to olive green. Growing to a height of 40-60 cm, it thrives in tropical and subtropical climates or warm, sheltered spots in temperate regions.
Fun Fact: The Prince of Orange gets its name from the striking transformation of its foliage. New leaves emerge in a bright orange hue and gradually transition to shades of yellow and light green as they mature, creating a visually dynamic display throughout its growth.

Red Creeper (Ventilago maderaspatana)
Ventilago maderaspatana is a climbing shrub or small tree native to tropical regions. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that develop into winged fruits. This plant is commonly found in forests, scrublands, and along roadsides.
Fun Fact: This plant produces distinctive winged fruits that enable wind dispersal, allowing its seeds to travel long distances. This adaptation helps the plant spread and thrive in diverse environments. It flourishes in warm, humid climates and is known for its resilience in various soil types. Traditionally, it has been used in herbal medicine for its potential therapeutic benefits.

Philodendron selloum (Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum)
Philodendron selloum is a popular tropical plant known for its dramatic foliage and adaptability to indoor and outdoor environment.
Fun Facts: The plant develops aerial roots that help anchor it and absorb moisture and nutrients from the air and surroundings. Unlike many philodendrons, Philodendron selloum does not climb. It grows as a self- heading plant, forming a dense upright rosette of leaves.

Philodendron Micans (Philodendron hederaceum var, hederaceum)
Philodendron micans features small,heart-shaped leaves that have a velvety texture and a rich, deep green color with hint of bronze and purple. The leaves have a shimmery, iridescent quality, adding to their visual appeal.
Fun Facts: The leaves of Philodendron micans have a unique velvety texture that differentiates it from manu other philodendrons it from many other Philodendron varieties, giving it a luxurious appearance.

Philodendron Erubescens (Red-leaf Philodendron)
This tropical climbing plant is known for its vibrant red stems and glossy, heart-shaped leaves that come in shades of green, bronze, or red. It is a fast-growing vine that can be trained to climb or left to trail, making it a versatile, low-maintenance choice for both indoor and outdoor gardens.
Fun Fact: Philodendron erubescens, commonly known as the Red-leaf Philodendron, is notable for its striking red stems and foliage. With proper support, this climbing plant can grow up to 12 feet tall indoors, creating an impressive and lush display in any space.

Philodendron ‘Birkin’ (Philodendron Birkin)
Philodendron ‘Birkin’ is a hybrid plant known for its dark green leaves with striking white pinstripe variegation. Compact and slow-growing, it thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil, making it a low-maintenance and attractive houseplant.
Fun Fact: Philodendron ‘Birkin’ is noted for its evolving variegation, with new leaves sometimes showing varying degrees of creamy-white striping. Over time, it may even produce solid green leaves, making each plant’s appearance unique and ever-changing.

Five Fingers Plant (Schefflera arboricola)
Schefflera arboricola, also known as the Five Fingers Plant, is a versatile evergreen shrub native to Taiwan. It is recognized for its glossy, palmate leaves divided into multiple leaflets that resemble fingers. This adaptable plant thrives in various light conditions, making it a popular choice for both indoor houseplants and outdoor landscaping. Its compact growth and resilience make it ideal for green walls and low-maintenance gardens, offering both aesthetic value and air-purifying benefits.
Fun Fact: Schefflera arboricola gets its name from its finger-like leaf clusters. It can also be trained to grow in decorative shapes, such as braided or twisted trunks, enhancing its versatility and appeal in indoor and outdoor settings.

Spider Grass Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider Plants have long, narrow, arching leaves that are typically green with white or yellow variegation. The leaves grow from a central rosette, creating a fountain-like appearance.
Fun Fact: Spider Plants are extremely easy to propagate. The plantlets can be detached and rooted in water or soil to create new plants. The plant is known for its trailing growth and can produce small, white flowers on long stems, followed by tiny plantlets or “pups” that can be propagated.

Schismatoglottis (Schismatogolottis Wallichii)
Schismatoglottis wallichii is a tropical perennial plant from the Araceae family. It features elongated, dark green leaves with silvery or variegated patterns, making it an attractive ornamental.
Fun Fact: This plant enhances indoor environments with its striking silvery foliage while also contributing to air purification, making it both a decorative and beneficial addition to any space.

Ground Landscaping Plants

Heliconia (Lobster Claw)
Heliconia is a striking and vibrant genus of tropical plants known for its exotic and colorful inflorescences
Fun Fact: The colorful bracts of Heliconia are known for their long-lasting blooms, making them popular in floral arrangements and as ornamental garden plants. Heliconias play a crucial role in their ecosystems, providing food and habitat for various wildlife, including insects, birds, and small mammals.

Peanut Grass (Arachis pintoi)
Peanut Grass, also known as Perennial Peanut or Perennial Peanut Grass, is a low-growing ground cover plant that is popular for its attractive foliage.
Fun Fact: As a member of the legume family, peanut grass has the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. The bright yellow flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.

Burle Marx Plant (Philodendron Burle Marx)
The Burle Marx Plant typically refers to the Philodendron ‘Burle Marx’ known for its elongated, heart-shaped leaves that are glossy and dark green. The leaves grow on slender stems, giving the plant a bushy appearance as it matures.
Fun Fact: This plant is named after Roberto Burle Marx, who was a pioneering landscape architect known for incorporating native Brazilian plants into his designs. It has a clumping habit with a tendency to spread out horizontally rather than climb, though it can be trained to climb if provided with support.

Calathea Lutea or Cigar Plant (Calathea Lutea)
Calathea lutea, also known as Havana Cigar, is a striking tropical plant known for its large, paddle-shaped leaves. Calathea lutea is distinguished by its large, broad leaves that can reach up to 2 feet in length. The leaves are typically dark green on the top side and have a silver-gray underside, providing a striking contrast.
Fun Fact: The plant produces inflorescences that resemble cigars, which is how it gets its common name. The flowers are contained within bracts that are reddish-brown to orange in color. In some cultures, the large leaves of Calathea lutea are used for wrapping food, much like banana leaves, due to their size and durability.

Calostemma Luteum (Yellow Garland)
Calostemma luteum, or Yellow Garland Lily, is a drought-tolerant, bulbous plant native to Australia. It produces yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers on tall stems, typically blooming in late summer, followed by slender, strap-like leaves.
Fun Fact: Calostemma luteum is known for its unique flowering habit, where the bright yellow blooms often appear before the leaves emerge. This fascinating plant typically flowers after periods of dry weather, adding an unexpected burst of color to the landscape.

Hedychium Coronarium (White Garland)
Hedychium coronarium, also known as White Garland Lily or White Ginger, is a tropical plant with fragrant, white, butterfly-like flowers. It blooms in clusters on tall stems with lush, lance-shaped leaves, typically in late summer. The plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Fun Fact: This plant is nicknamed “Butterfly Ginger” for its delicate, butterfly-shaped blooms, Hedychium coronarium is prized for its fragrance and is often used in traditional garlands and ceremonies

Thaumatophyllum Xanadu (Philodendron xanadu)
Typically reaching heights of 1 meter and widths of 1.6 meters. It features dark green, glossy leaves that are deeply lobed, with each leaf measuring up to 31 cm long and displaying a distinctive C-shaped petiole. This ornamental plant is appreciated for its striking foliage and air-purifying qualities, making it a favored choice for indoor and outdoor settings.

Philodendron selloum (Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum)
Philodendron selloum is a popular tropical plant known for its dramatic foliage and adaptability to indoor and outdoor environment.
Fun Facts: The plant develops aerial roots that help anchor it and absorb moisture and nutrients from the air and surroundings. Unlike many philodendrons, Philodendron selloum does not climb. It grows as a self- heading plant, forming a dense upright rosette of leaves.

Sensation/Spathiphyllum wallisii (Large Leaf Peace Lily)
Spathiphyllum wallisii, commonly known as the large leaf peace lily, is a popular tropical plant that typically grows to 2 to 4 feet tall and is characterized by its broad green leaves and stunning white flowers.
Fun Fact: The large leaf peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii) thrives in low-light conditions and is an effective air purifier, removing common indoor toxins to enhance air quality in indoor spaces.

Rhapis Excels (broadleaf lady palm or bamboo palm)
A resilient tropical plant characterized by its fan-shaped, glossy green leaves and slender, bamboo-like stems. Typically reaching heights of 6 to 12 feet, this palm thrives in low to moderate light conditions and is often used as an ornamental houseplant or in landscaping.
Fun Fact: The broadleaf lady palm (Rhapis excelsa) is recognized for its excellent air-purifying capabilities and adaptability to various lighting conditions, making it an ideal choice for enhancing indoor air quality.

Lendini Eye/ Caladium lindenii (Xanthosoma lindenii)
Xanthosoma lindenii (Linden’s Elephant Ear) is a tropical ground plant recognized for its large, arrow-shaped leaves with bold white veins. It thrives in warm, humid environments with indirect light, making it a popular choice for outdoor tropical gardens and indoor décor.
Fun Fact: The distinctive foliage of Xanthosoma lindenii, with its bold white veins set against deep green leaves, is often considered “living art” in botanical circles. Its striking appearance makes it a preferred choice for both tropical landscaping and interior plant design.

Wave of Love (Anthurium plowmanii)
Anthurium plowmanii, or “Wave of Love,” is a tropical plant known for its large, wavy-edged leaves, which can grow up to 3 feet long. Native to South America, it thrives in warm, humid environments with indirect light.
Fun Fact: The unique, wavy leaves of the “Wave of Love” (Anthurium plowmanii) are often compared to the gentle movement of ocean waves, making it a favorite for bringing a tropical feel to indoor and outdoor spaces.

Gigantenium (Philodendron gigantenium)
Philodendron giganteum is known for its large, glossy leaves, which can grow up to 3 feet long. This dramatic foliage gives the plant a striking presence, making it ideal for creating a tropical atmosphere in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Fun Fact: The gigantic leaves of Philodendron giganteum can reach up to 3 feet, comparable in size to a small child. This bold, jungle-like appearance makes it a favorite for plant enthusiasts seeking to bring the beauty of the rainforest into their living spaces.

Black Dragon (Solenostemon scutellarioides)
– The Black Dragon is a variety of Coleus– Solenostemon scutellarioides, it is an ornamental plant known for its dark burgundy to nearly black, ruffled leaves with subtle purple undertones.
Fun Fact: The Black Dragon Coleus is often referred to as the “gothic beauty” of the plant world due to its striking, nearly black, ruffled leaves. Its dramatic appearance brings a distinctive and elegant contrast to both garden landscapes and indoor environments.

Olympiad (Philodendron pinnatifidum)
Philodendron pinnatifidum ‘Olympiad’ is a unique tropical plant known for its deeply lobed, elongated leaves that give it a striking, sculptural appearance.
Fun Fact: The intricately lobed leaves of Philodendron pinnatifidum ‘Olympiad’ are reminiscent of delicate feathers, adding a dynamic and sculptural quality to the plant. This unique feature makes it a standout addition to any tropical or indoor landscape.

RattleSnake (Trimeresurus albolabris / white-lipped pit viper)
Pit viper rattlesnakes in the Philippines refer to species within the genus Trimeresurus, such as the white-lipped pit viper. These venomous snakes are known for their vibrant green coloration and distinctive white or yellow lip stripes. Typically found in tropical rainforests, they are excellent climbers often seen resting on trees.
Fun Facts: The white-lipped pit viper is recognized for its striking coloration and climbing abilities, allowing it to blend into the lush rainforest vegetation. This effective camouflage aids in ambushing prey and offers protection from potential predators.

Tricolor Plant (Amaranthus tricolor)
Amaranthus tricolor, commonly known as Joseph’s Coat, is an ornamental plant valued for its striking, multicolored foliage that adds vibrancy to gardens.
Fun Fact: The name Joseph’s Coat comes from the plant’s bright, varied colors, which resemble the “coat of many colors” worn by Joseph in the biblical story from the Book of Genesis.

Whale Fin (Sansevieria masoniana)
Sansevieria masoniana, commonly known as Whale Fin or Mason’s Congo, is a unique succulent admired for its large, paddle-shaped leaves that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The leaves are characterized by a dark green base with lighter green spots, giving them the distinctive appearance of a whale’s fin, which inspired its common name.
Fun Fact: The Whale Fin Sansevieria gets its name from its single, broad leaf resembling a whale’s fin. Its striking form, paired with its minimal care needs, has made it a popular choice among plant collectors and for modern decor.

Frydek/ Green velvet Alocasia (Alocasia micholitziana)
Alocasia micholitziana commonly known as ‘Frydek’ is a tropical plant known for its velvety, deep green leaves with prominent white veins. The heart-shaped leaves grow on long, slender stems, giving the plant an elegant appearance.
Fun Fact: The Alocasia ‘Frydek’ is often referred to as the “Green Velvet” plant due to the soft, velvety texture of its leaves, making it both a tactile and visual centerpiece. Its bold white veins set against deep green leaves give the plant an exotic appeal, making it a highly sought-after choice among plant enthusiasts.

Calathea Green (Calathea ornata or Goeppertia ornate)
Calathea ornata, now classified as Goeppertia ornata, is a tropical plant celebrated for its strikingly patterned leaves. It features large, elongated leaves with a rich green background and prominent pink or white stripes. This plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet.
Fun Fact: This tropical plant not only adds visual appeal but also exhibits fascinating leaf movements, folding up at night and unfurling during the day in response to light, a behavior known as nyctinasty, making it a captivating indoor addition.

Red Creeper (Ventigago maderaspatana)
Ventigago maderaspatana is a climbing shrub or small tree native to tropical regions. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that develop into winged fruits. This plant is commonly found in forest, scrublands, and along roadsides.
Fun Fact: This plant produces distinctive winged fruits that enable wind dispersal, allowing its seeds to travel long distances. This adaptation helps the plant spread and thrive in diverse environments. Traditionally, it has been used in herbal medicine for its potential therapeutic benefits.

Purple Heart Setcreasea (Tradescantia pallida)
Tradescantia pallida, or Purple Heart, is an eye-catching plant with vibrant purple leaves and stems. Known for its low maintenance, it also produces small pink or purple flowers, adding beauty to gardens, hanging baskets, or as ground cover.
Fun Fact: The vibrant purple leaves of the Purple Heart plant become even more striking when exposed to bright sunlight, enhancing its color and making it a dynamic addition to both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Lantana (Lantana camara)
Lantana camara, or common lantana, is a tropical shrub known for its bright, multicolored flower clusters that attract butterflies. It grows up to 6 feet tall, has aromatic leaves, and thrives in warm, sunny conditions. While popular in gardens, it can be invasive in some areas due to its rapid growth.
Fun Fact: Lantana camara is not only admired for its vibrant blooms but also serves as an effective attractor of butterflies, making it a favored choice for gardeners seeking to create vibrant, pollinator-friendly landscapes.

Justicia adhatoda (Malabar nut)
Justicia adhatoda, commonly known as malabar nut or adulsa, is a perennial shrub native to South Asia. It features glossy dark green leaves and clusters of tubular, white to pale purple flowers that bloom year-round.
Fun Fact: Justicia adhatoda, commonly known as malabar nut, has been utilized for centuries in traditional medicine and is often referred to as the “cough killer” due to its efficacy in treating respiratory ailments and alleviating coughs.

Golden Duranta (Duranta Erecta)
Duranta erecta, commonly known as golden duranta or sky flower, is an ornamental shrub native to Central and South America. It features vibrant golden-yellow foliage and clusters of small, tubular lavender to blue flowers. Growing between 3 to 10 feet tall, it can be used as a hedge or standalone specimen and thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Fun Fact: Duranta erecta, commonly known as golden duranta, is highly valued in gardens for its vibrant golden-yellow foliage and colorful flowers, as well as its ability to attract butterflies, making it an aesthetically pleasing and ecologically beneficial addition to any landscape.

Mayana (Coleus blumei)
Coleus blumei, commonly referred to as mayana or painted nettle, is an ornamental plant cherished for its vibrant, multicolored foliage that includes shades of red, pink, yellow, green, and purple. Typically reaching heights of 1 to 3 feet, it thrives in warm, humid conditions and prefers partial shade to full sun.
Fun Fact: Coleus blumei has been traditionally used in folk medicine for various purposes, including treating respiratory ailments, digestive issues, and skin irritations. The leaves are believed to possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them a valuable addition to herbal remedies in some cultures.

Palmera (Chrysalidocarpus lutescens)
Chrysalidocarpus lutescens, commonly called the areca palm or butterfly palm, is an ornamental palm known for its feathery, arching fronds that can grow up to 6 feet long. It typically reaches heights of 6 to 12 feet.
Fun Fact: The areca palm is not only valued for its aesthetic appeal but also serves as a natural air purifier, effectively removing toxins from the environment and enhancing indoor air quality. This makes it a highly sought-after choice for residential and commercial spaces.

Frog Grass (Juncus bufonius)
Juncus bufonius, commonly known as toad rush, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the rush family (Juncaceae). It features slender, upright stems that can grow to heights of 10 to 30 cm (4 to 12 inches) and produces small, inconspicuous flowers that typically appear in clusters.
Fun Fact: The name toad rush is derived from this plant’s typical habitat in wetland areas, where it often grows alongside amphibians such as frogs and toads. Juncus bufonius plays a vital role in these ecosystems by providing shelter and food, thereby contributing to the overall biodiversity and health of marshy environments.

Bamboo orchids (Arundina graminifolia)
This plant is a perennial terrestrial orchid native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia. This unique orchid is characterized by its slender, bamboo-like stems, which can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall.
Fun Fact: The bamboo orchid (Arundina graminifolia) is distinguished not only by its slender, bamboo-like stems but also by its remarkable adaptability. Unlike many other orchid species that demand specific care conditions, this resilient plant can thrive in both moist and slightly drier environments, making it a preferred choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet visually striking addition to their landscapes.

Trees

Fire Tree (Delonix Regia)
The Fire tree commonly known as th Flame tree or Royal Poiniana, is renowned for its vibrant red-orange flowers and is a popular ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical regions.
Fun Fact: The fire tree is noted for its broad, spreading canopy and brilliant red or orange flowers that cover the tree during its blooming season. It has fern-like leaves that are bright green, providing a striking contrast to the flowers. Delonix regia is known for its rapid growth rate, making it an excellent choice for providing quick shade.

Brazilian Fern tree (Schizolobium parahyba)
The Brazilian Fern Tree is known for its tall, straight trunk and umbrella-like canopy. The tree features large, compound leaves with numerous leaflets, resembling the fronds of a fern.
Fun Fact: Schizolobium parahyba is one of the fastest-growing trees in the world, capable of reaching maturity in just a few years under ideal conditions. The tree provides habitat and food for various wildlife species and helps in reforestation and afforestation projects due to its rapid growth.

Dao Tree (Dracontomelon dao)
The Dao tree is a large deciduous tree with a broad, spreading canopy. It features compound leaves with several oval-shaped leaflets.
Fun Fact: The Dao tree is highly prized for its timber, which is used in furniture making, flooring, and construction. The wood is durable and has an attractive grain. The fruits of the Dao Tree are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. Furthermore, they are sometimes used in traditional medicine and as a food source for wildfire. The tree produces small, fragrant, and white to greenish flowers that develop into round, edible fruits. The fruits are about 1-2 inches in diameter and turn yellow when ripe.

Dita Tree (Alstonia scholaris)
The Dita Tree is a tropical tree native to south and Southeast Asia. It is known for its medical properties and distinctive appearance. The Dita Tree is an evergreen tree with a straight trunk and a rounded crown. It has dark green, leathery leaves arranged in a whorls.
Fun Fact: The Dita Tree is renowned for its medical properties. Its bark has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as respiratory issues, fever, and dysentery. The name “Alstonia scholaris” reflects its historical use for making blackboards and slate boards, as the wood was commonly used in schools.

Balete Tree (Ficus benjamina / ficus balte)
The balete tree belongs to the genus Ficus and is commonly known as a type of strangler fig. Its scientific name varies depending on the species, with Ficus Benjamina and Ficus balete being among the most recognized.
Longevity: Balete tree can live for several hundred years. They are slow-growing, which contributes to their ling lifespan. Some species of Balete trees are known to live for over 500 years, making them ancient landmarks in the areas where they grow.
Ecological impact: The Balete Tree plays a crucial role in its ecosystem. It provides habitat and food for various wildlife species, including birds, insects, and small mammals. The tree’s figs are vital food source for many animals, helping to sustain biodiversity,
Epiphyte to strangler: The balete tree begins its life an epiphyte, meaning it initially grows on another tree or structure. Over time, its roots extend downward and eventually encase the host tree, absorbing nutrients and water. This process can ultimately kill the host tree, leaving the Balete tree standing independently.

Palo Maria (Calophyllum inophyllum)
A tropical tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. It features broad, glossy leaves and produces fragrant white flowers that develop into round, green fruits.
Fun Fact: The tree is valued for its oil-rich seeds, which are used in traditional medicine and cosmetics.

Palo Santo (Bursera graveolens)
A tree native to the tropical regions of South America. It typically grows up to 5-10 meters tall and has a distinctive, aromatic wood with a yellowish hue.
Fun Fact: The tree produces small, white flowers and has a resin that is highly valued for its pleasant fragrance, often used in incense and traditional medicine.

Balayong (Cassia javanica)
Ferns are characterized by their large, upright growth forms, often featuring a tall trunk and a crown of feathery fronds. They are typically unique among ferns as they can grow to impressive heights of up to 20 meters (65 feet) and develop a trunk-like structure.
Fun Fact: The tree has a broad, spreading canopy and compound leaves. It typically blooms during the warmer months, creating a vibrant display that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Indian Tree/Indian Mast Tree (Polyalthia Longifolia)
Indian Mast Tree or False Ashoka, is a tall, slender evergreen tree native to the Indian subcontinent. It is widely planted for its ornamental value and is known for its distinctive vertical growth habit.
Fun Fact: The dense foliage of the tree helps reduce noise and air pollution, making it a popular choice for urban landscaping. In traditional medicine, the fruit and other parts of the tree are used for their purported medical properties, such as treating coughs, sore throats, and digestive issues.

Fern Tree (Cyatheales)
Ferns are characterized by their large, upright growth forms, often featuring a tall trunk and a crown of feathery fronds. They are typically unique among ferns as they can grow to impressive heights of up to 20 meters (65 feet) and develop a trunk-like structure.
Fun Fact: These ancient plants have existed for millions of years and are often referred to as “living fossils,” providing insight into the Earth’s prehistoric environments while adding a dramatic tropical touch to modern landscapes.

Balitbitan Tree (Cynometra ramiflora)
The Balitbitan tree us a medium to large-sized evergreen tree with a dense canopy. It features compound leaves with small, elliptical leaflets and has a straight, cylindrical trunk.
Fun Fact: The wood of the Balitbatin Tree is valued for its hardness and durability. It is used in construction, furniture making, and boat building. In some traditional medicine systems, parts of the tree are used for their purported medical properties, such as treating skin ailments and other conditions.

Katmon Tree (Dillenia philippinensis)
The katmon Tree is a tree native to the Philippines. It is known for its distinctive flowers and edible fruit. The Katmon Tree is a small to medium-sized canopy. It has large, leathery, glossy leaves with prominent veins.
Fun Fact: The fruits of the Katmon Tree are edible and can be eaten raw or used in cooking. It is often used in making jams, jellies, and sauces due to its tart flavor. In traditional medicine, the fruit and other parts of the tree are used for their purported medical properties, such as treating coughs, sore throatsm and digestive issues.